How are Surrogate Mothers Screened?

Are you keen to find out how surrogate mothers are screened?

Having a baby is no small feat. Intended parents want to know that the woman carrying their precious bundle of joy is physically and emotionally healthy enough for such a responsibility. As a woman considering becoming a surrogate, you might be interested in researching the screening process. Here at Joy of Life, we have an extensive screening service that ensures peace of mind for both surrogate and intended parents.

How are prospective surrogates screened?

The screening process consists of six stages:

Medical, Social and Drug History

At the onset, a prospective surrogate will be asked for complete medical, social, and drug history for themselves as well as their families. If all that is clear, an official medical record from a physician will then be required.

Birth Records

A surrogate is a woman who ideally has had at least one child before. The surrogate must provide previous birth records to the agency. It is preferable for a potential surrogate to have had successful pregnancies without major complications.

Background Checks

In addition to providing the agency with medical records, Joy of Life will carry out a background check to ensure that the prospective surrogate has no criminal or child abuse record.

Medical Evaluation

Medical records give surrogacy agencies a chance to understand a surrogate’s previous medical history, but the prospective surrogate will also have to undergo a routine medical evaluation at a fertility clinic. For many agencies, this step is completed after the surrogate has found a match with the intended parents. Tests included in this evaluation are blood and urine samplings, saline sonogram of the uterus, and a physical exam.

Mental Health and Psychological Evaluation

Surrogacy can be an emotionally challenging journey and it can be difficult when it comes time to hand over the baby. This is why at the onset, each surrogate must see a psychologist in order to discuss her emotional well-being, personality, and sensitivity regarding giving up the child they will carry.

Joy of Life has a surrogacy team to walk with you

Joy of Life is a leading surrogacy company located in Southern California. We are a diverse team made of up of former surrogate mothers, parents whose lives were changed by surrogacy, clinical coordinators and health care providers. Thanks to our unique experiences we can truly walk with those considering being surrogates and those looking for a surrogacy option.

Are you keen to find out more about surrogacy or being a surrogate? Contact us for more information.